REVIEW | The Phantom of the Opera UK Tour

The Phantom of The Opera

Curve Theatre, Leicester ★★★★★

2020 is the year that one of the most successful musicals of our time, Phantom of the Operaembarks on an exciting UK and Ireland tour. Some astonishing facts about this production include that it has been played to over 140 million people in 35 countries in 166 cities across the world. The box revenues for The Phantom of the Opera are higher than any film or stage play in history. It has made its home at Her Majesty's Theatre, London in 1986 which means it's now been playing for 34 years and has done more than 13,900 performances. Undoubtedly The Phantom of the Opera is one of Andrew Lloyd Webbers biggest musical successes.

The musical has one of the most romantic, haunting and soaring scores of all times; including familiar songs like All I Ask of You, Music of the Night and the unforgettable title song. Phantom of the Opera is actually one of the more "traditional" musicals that I haven't actually seen before. I suppose individually it was a show I was ever naturally pulled towards but I was keen to see the show for myself. This exciting new touring production is Cameron Mackintosh's fourth take on the show and it proves to be as gorgeous and memorable as the audiences say.

Phantom of the Opera tells the tale of a disfigured musical genius known only as 'The Phantom', he haunts the deep depths of the Paris Opera House. He becomes mesmerised by the talents and natural beauty of a young soprano - Christine. The Phantom lures her as his protege and falls madly in love with her. He is unaware of Christine's love for Raoul, the Phantom's obsession sets the scene for a dramatic turn of events where not only jealously but madness and passion collide with one another in spectacular style. Wearing the iconic Phantom mask is Killian Donnelly who instantly draws in the auditorium with his distinct presence as the mysterious figure within the wings. Donnelly does an excellent job of showing the Phantom's incapability of giving others love and freedom, but there's an underlying desire to change live a normal life that he compliments so well within his performance. His vocals are incredibly sharp and warming too, I was so captivated by his character that I couldn't look beyond him. Standing beside him as Christine Daaéi is Holly-Anne Hull who is spellbinding as the female protagonist in the story. Holly-Anne compliments the kind and compassionate characteristics of Christine well. Her vocal ability is sublime and she displays a true commitment to the role, she's a superb performer through and through.

This UK tour is done on such a tremendous scale that it feels as though you are in the Majesty's Theatre, the entire Curve stage has completely been transformed for this touring production and it fits like a glove. The entire set design is glorious and takes your attention immediately, especially the glorious chandelier that hangs above the audience and becomes a centre point in the story. The title song number is without a shadow of the doubt, one of the most breathtaking numbers in the show, showcasing the depths creatives go to in order to create iconic scenes within the story. The mist and candles that rose from the floor of the space really enhanced the stage area and it almost looked infinite. Another stand out musical number within this show is Masquerade, it's an epic way to begin the second half with an enormous staircase and performers dressed in their absolute finest. The spectacular costumes in this number are striking and so individually beautiful to look at. The choreography in this number is also incredibly slick and well-rehearsed through every breath. The Phantom of the Opera is known for its magnificent vocals and this show left goosebumps on my arms for its entirety. The capacity and volume of which this musical possesses are incredible and now I understand people's admiration and love for this show on a more personal level. The Phantom of the Opera is just haunting but stunning all the same. I felt like I needed to remind myself that we were in fact in Leicester and not in London at this show. It was incredible from start to finish! It's one touring production YOU MUST see this year! The Phantom of the Opera UK Tour is playing at Curve Theatre, Leicester until 21 March before embarking to 8 other venues. You can find out more by visiting this website.